If your jet ski or waverunner hull is made of fiberglass then gelcoat can be an excellent restoration option. Gel coating a jet ski is a great way to keep it looking new and protect the surface from scratches and dings. It’s also a relatively easy process that most people can do in a few hours. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps of how to gelcoat a jet ski. We’ll also provide some tips on how to make the process go as smoothly as possible.
What is gelcoat and what does it do
Gelcoat is a type of resin that is used as a protective coating on many boats, jet skis, and wave runners. It is applied to the hull of the vessel in order to provide a shiny, smooth finish. In addition to its aesthetic benefits, gelcoat also helps to protect the hull from UV damage, scratches, and other types of wear and tear. In some cases, gelcoat can even help to repair minor damage to the hull. As a result, gelcoat is an essential part of any boat or jet ski owner’s arsenal. While gelcoat can help extend the life of your jet ski or wave runner, it is not indestructible. Over time, it can become dulled or scratched, and it may eventually need to be replaced.
How to clean and prep the jet ski surface before you start
To clean the jet ski, you’ll need a mild soap, a soft cloth, and a jet ski brush. Start by mixing the soap and warm water in a bucket. Then Wet the jet ski with the soapy water and use the brush to scrub away any dirt or grime. Rinse the jet ski off with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth. For tough grease and dirt spots you can use a degreaser. This will remove any dirt, grime or grease that could prevent the paint from adhering properly.
Finally, inspect the jet ski for any cracks, chips or other damage. If you notice any of these, make sure to get them repaired before applying gelcoat. Use a fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out any rough spots. Gel coat repair kits, scratch patch kits, gel coat paste, fiberglass repair kits come with everything you need for small repairs.
Applying the gelcoat to your jet ski, wave runner
Applying gelcoat to a jet ski is a great way to protect your investment. Gelcoat is a clear or colored coating that is applied to the surface of a jet ski to protect it from the elements. It is also used to give the jet ski a high gloss finish. Gelcoat is available in both spray and brush-on versions. The brush-on version is generally easier to apply, but the spray version will give you a more even coverage. When applying gelcoat, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. In general, you will want to apply several thin coats rather than one thick coat. Be sure to allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one. Once the gelcoat has been applied, you will need to buff it out to achieve a high gloss finish. Once the final coat of gelcoat has been applied, the jet ski should be allowed to cure for 24 hours before being launched.
It’s important to choose the right gelcoat. There are dozens of different formulations on the market, so it’s important to do your homework and consult your owner’s manual. Once you’ve selected the right gelcoat, the next step is to apply it correctly. One common mistake is to apply too much gelcoat, which can lead to runs and sagging. It’s important to apply a thin, even coat and then allow it to cure properly before sanding or buffing.
With these tips in mind, your gelcoat project should be easier. Just remember to take your time and follow all instructions carefully, and you’ll soon be enjoying your jet ski on the open water. If you have any questions about selecting the right gel coat for your watercraft, please call the Bottom Paint Store customer support team 888.505.2313.